By Andi Anderson
A new mentorship initiative in Michigan is set to support first-generation farmers by connecting them with experienced agricultural professionals. The Michigan First-Generation Farm Mentors Program aims to help individuals who did not grow up on a farm and have limited agricultural experience gain valuable knowledge and practical skills.
Supported through a Partnership Grant from North Central SARE, the program will provide selected participants with 20 hours of paid mentorship. The initiative is designed to strengthen farm management abilities, improve sustainability practices, and encourage the adoption of innovative farming methods.
The mentorship program is scheduled to begin in October 2026 and continue through February 2028. During this period, ten first-generation farmers will be matched with experienced mentors from different agricultural backgrounds across Michigan. The mentors represent a wide range of farming specialties, allowing participants to learn from professionals with expertise that matches their farming interests and goals.
The mentor group includes Lori Hernandez of Three Acre Farm in Byron Center, who specializes in cut flowers; Gabriel Fransico of Thunderfoot Farms in Paw Paw, who focuses on livestock and poultry; Patti Travioli of Heartwood Forest Farm in Cedar, known for herb production; and Malaika Whitney of Whitney Farmstead in Ann Arbor, with expertise in livestock, poultry, and maple syrup production.
Additional mentors include Shannon Brines of Brines Farm in Webster Township, specializing in mixed vegetables and tree fruits and nuts; Whitney Belprez of Two Sparrows Farm & Dairy in Eaton Rapids, focusing on livestock and dairy production; Trent Thompson from Of the Land in Battle Creek, experienced in mixed vegetables and agritourism; Susan Sharp of Open Sky Farm in Pellston, who specializes in cut flowers; Janie Case Beuthin of Twig End Farm in Flint, working in cut flowers and urban agriculture; and Rebecca Titus of Titus Farms in Leslie, with expertise in mixed vegetables, small fruits, and cut flowers.
Although only ten participants will be selected for the mentorship program, organizers plan to support additional applicants by referring them to other farmer-to-farmer mentorship opportunities and educational resources. The program will also offer learning activities and events, including the Roots, Flowers and Fresh Ideas farm tour series.
The initiative reflects a growing effort to help beginning farmers develop the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to build successful agricultural businesses. By combining mentorship with educational programming, the program aims to strengthen the future of farming while supporting a new generation of agricultural leaders in Michigan.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Michigan, Sustainable Agriculture